One of the most commonly used scales in improvisation is the Minor Pentatonic scale. Shown below are 5 positions of the A Minor Pentatonic scale. The second position shown is probably the most commonly used shape of this scale. While learning all five is highly recommended, start off by learning the adjacent positions (1 and 3) as this will offer you far more variety in your playing.
Remember that these scales can be played anywhere on the neck. In the case of this scale, if you were to start the same shape (pattern) one fret higher it would become the Bb Minor Pentatonic scale. One fret lower and it becomes the Ab Minor Pentatonic scale.
When practicing any scale, always start off slowly. Play precisely and cleanly remembering to double pick ( pick .. down, up, down, up, down etc.). Speed will come but you will see much better results if you work on precision first.
The lessons on improvisation will give you some ideas on how to use these scales to their fullest advantage.
Click on the diagram for an MP3 audio example.
Click here if you’re not sure how to read the scale blocks.
© Synaptic Systems Inc., 2000
Hey, just stumbled upon your site here and Im sure glad I did. Ive always wanted to delve into the world of scales and make some sense of it all. I just started into your exercise for the minor pentatonic and major scale there and I like what I see. IVe been playing on/off for like 15 years and I should be better but sometimes when you dont have the right direction, it stunts your growth….looking forward to more of your lessons!
Hi Jason,
Thanks for taking the time to write
Good luck with your playing!
Cheers,
Gil
Very cool site, I hope you are making a few bucks off the ads, because it is evident you have thought this out, put a lot of work into it, and very nicely done!
Thanks for taking the time, and mp3 files too!
Where were you with this site 15 years ago, lol!
Thanks again man,
Perryinjax
Thanks again Perryinjax!
Actually, the site has been up for over 10 years now but has gone through a few facelifts!
Have a peek here as well. You might enjoy a few of the teasers (and 2 full songs). ‘Not Mine’ is very pentatonic!
http://www.gilnamur.com/2010/old-dog-new-tricks/old-dog-new-tricks-tracks-and-samples/
Cheer,
Gil